Derby Day

Run for the roses?

Lots of running went on that day

In Philly and Churchill Downs;

My parents were at the finish

Of their very own Triple Crown

 

As I came screaming into the world

Dancer’s Image was winning the race

(Too bad he was disqualified,

     drug use was his disgrace)

 

Officially, the roses went

To a colt named Forward Pass

And Mom and Dad held me, careful;

My head was fragile glass

 

I was my father’s favorite,

At least, that’s what I say

I’m sure of that, because it’s true ~

I was born on Derby Day!

 

Reviews

[Antoinette Tarsitano-Mo..]

Another cool way to remember your Dad!! Nice write!

[Rita L. Sev]

Well, I was his favorite... ;) thanks!

[Holly Mason]

this is more then adorable
like all the stats and imagery
loving relationships on Derby Day-what interesting loving thoughts
thank you teach this is sweet

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you, Holly - just a piece of history here!

[Mother Maggie]

Wonderful poem. It brought back memories of watching the Derby with my dad--I can almost smell the horse sweat and sawdust. It's sublime how you superimposed the story of your entrance into this ratrace against the images of the horses racing into the homestretch.

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you, Maggie! As you can tell, my Dad was a huge racing fan, and he always remembered that I was born on Derby Day.

[unsavable_soul]

This is magnificent,
Such a description of such a beautiful event is truly unique. Both were a race, and both had a winner, I say by your writing we all one that day. this is really beautiful on two entirely separate descriptive plateaus. You have the race of horses and birth and both wonderfully painted for us to view.

"As I came screaming into the world
Dancer’s Image was winning the race
(Too bad he was disqualified,
drug use was his disgrace)"

Definitely a favorite of mine. Though it peaks a curiosity if this too was a double description in anyway? I perhaps am not looking too closely. I apologize for my delay, I have been working out some issues.
Sincerely
Christopher

[Rita L. Sev]

Thanks so much, Christopher! Actually, no double meaning in that verse - you can read the history of the Derby that year (1968). It was the only time in history that a horse was disqualified for drugs!

[unsavable_soul]

Got you,
I figured it was a direct reference but thought perhaps it was a double meaning. Thank you for the clarification. This was a favored read of mine and i hoped you wouldn't mind if I added it to my favorites?
Chris

[Rita L. Sev]

I never mind when someone enjoys one of my writes. Thank you!

[unsavable_soul]

I am a fan for unique works and this most definitely is.
Thanks
Chris

[Damien Thibodeaux]

How appropriate to reminisce on Derby day. You must have had a very special relationship with your dad...

And I guess I should say, Happy Birthday to you Rita!

[Rita L. Sev]

Well, we were all his favorite in one way or another. Thanks, Damien!

[quinfinn]

you know me and my little music fetish...well, of course i was humming "run for the roses", the old fogelberg song when reading this one. this is humorous as per your usual frolic, yet there is a sad and tender feel to it as well....a little more serious than intended, or a perfect blend? i guess only Rita knows. awesome write!

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you, Quin - while I was going for amusing, there is likely a melancholy note whenever my father is present in a write.

[Will]

Very nice! Simple rhyming scheme and a very nice back-and-forth between the derby and your birth. I like the simplicity and quickness this poem has. Nice job, and happy birthday! (Or at least close to it)

[Rita L. Sev]

Thanks, Will! Quickness is certainly important in the Derby! :)

[Marie]

I know you were a real winner.

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you, Marie!

[carol burgess romance]

I just finished watching the Kentucky Derby on tv. Fun little peice you have here.

[Rita L. Sev]

Thanks!

[SyberRose]

Looks like we are both a taurus...Happy birthday...Im watching the derby right now..
Cute one Rita...How do you like those hats on there?

[Rita L. Sev]

The hats are fun to see, but I wouldn't wear one! I do love those noble animals, though... Thanks, fellow Taurus!